Christmas and Holiday Events in Miami

Ho! Ho! Ho! Stringing our lights around the palm trees and Santa is getting ready to surf!

Christmas in Miami is about enjoying the sunshine and gorgeous breezy weather!

And to get into the spirit, our regular events sparkle with plenty of lights, christmas carols and holiday cheer... Zoo Lights, Winterland at the Farm... are all back during the holiday season year after year! Here are our top picks, from holiday villages, fantastic light strolls, holiday concerts, musicals and of course, the Nutcraker...

As in all public holidays, government offices, schools, post offices, banks and public libraries will close on Christmas Day. Many restaurants remain open and offer special celebratory meals, brunches, dinners, cocktails...

And this is the perfect time to head outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and gorgeous "winter" weather. Migrating birds and hybernating manatees have arrived, this is a good time for a visit to the Everglades, enjoy the beautiful wildlife or a thrilling airboat ride! Please note that some parks will be closed on Christmas Day.

Here are this year's most popular Christmas and Holiday Season events and celebrations in Miami:

Christmas Festivals, Fairs, Lights...

• Jungle Island's Luminosa! Festival of Lights - Mid-November to March
• NightGarden Magical Light Spectacular at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens - Select dates from mid-November to early January 12
• Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park - Mid-November through early January
• Symphony In Lights Holiday Celebration at Gulfstream Park - late November through December 31
• Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami - Select nights from late November through December
• Magical Snowfall at Dolphin Mall - Late November through early January
• "Holidays in Wonderland" Historic Holiday Decor at the Deering Estate and Holiday Evening Strolls - Late November through early January
• Winterland at the Farm - Weekends from late November to early January
• Open-Air Holiday Markets at Dania Pointe - Select Fridays in late November and December
• Winterfest Boat Parade - Second Saturday in December
• Nights of Lights at Pinecrest Gardens - Weekends in December
• Gardens of Lights at Flamingo Gardens - Select Nights in December
• Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights - Select nights in December
• Holiday Drone Show in South Beach - Saturday in mid-December
• Snow Fest and Holiday Parade at NMB City Hall - Saturday in mid-December
• Winter Wonderland at North Shore Park - In Mid-December
• Meet & Greet with Santa at Sandrells River Theater - December, close to Christmas
• A Victorian Christmas at Historic Stranahan House - Select dates in December
• Santa On The Beach at Ft. Lauderdale Beach - Typically a Tuesday in mid-December

And in the Holiday Entertainment Calendar

• Miami City Ballet: The Nutcracker - Several dates in December at the Adrienne Arsht Center and many other venues throughout South Florida
• Magical Candlelight Concerts in Miami, featuring this December: Holiday classics, Tribute to Queen, Ed Sheeran, From Bach to the Beatles, Classic Rock On Strings, Tchaikovsky and many more - Several dates
• FREE New World Symphony Wallcast Concert - Sounds of the Season - Typically on the Saturday preceding Christmas at SoundScape Park Miami Beach
• Andrea Bocelli The Holiday Tour
• Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert

Christmas Services

• Christmas Eve Midnight Mass and Services - Midnight Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Where To Stay, Dine, Party

• Best Christmas Hotels For Spending The Holidays in Miami Top picks for staycations in Miami over Christmas and their Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dinners, Brunches, Kids Events, Santa Visits...
• Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dinner in Miami

And check out this year's New Year's Eve Holiday events in Miami.

Christmas Festivals, Fairs, Tree Lightings...

Luminosa! Festival of Lights at Jungle Island

A Chinese Lantern Festival with a very Miami tropical twist! Taking place in Jungle Island where 13 acres of the park's environs will be decked out with humongous brightly lit silk lanterns featuring four different themes portraying the diverse animal and plant life found in the park. Certainly a fantastic way to explore wildlife and adventure in a new light. The exhibits will be a very festive addition to the holidays!

When? - November through March
Where? Jungle Island at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail Miami, Florida 33132
How Much? Adults $33+, Children (4-12) $23+, Senior, Student, Military $28+, Family bundle (min. 4 tickets, max 2 adults) $22+

More Info & tickets: Luminosa! Festival of Lights

NightGarden a Magical Light Spectacular

An enchanted, illuminated experience full of fantasy and wonderment where things like the Wise Talking Tree, Flying Fairies and a Sunflower Maze come to life.
Come and marvel at unbelievable live effects such as holographic butterflies and floating orchids throughout multiple acres of dazzling magic.

When? Select dates November through January
Where? Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens at 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables, FL 33156
How Much? Weekday prices starting at $25+. General Admission $40+, Children 10 and under $26+. Discounts for Fairchild members, students, senior, military, group (min. 6) bundle available.

More info and tickets, get 20% off: Nightgarden Magical Light Spectacular

Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park

What? A family holiday spectacular featuring miles of holiday lights, a collection of 50 carnival rides, including 3 roller coasters and the tallest ferris wheel in the country, live performances, a Santa Village, phenomenal lights shows, immersive experiences, and of course fantastic carnival food.
You don't want to miss the jaw-dropping Sleigh & Sway Spectacular and the fearless motorcycle riders inside the giant steel Christmas ball.
More fun awaits at Town Square, Santa's Village, Sweet Street, ToyTown and a snowy wonderland at Arctic Delight.

When? Mid-November to early January
Where? Tropical Park at 7900 SW 40 St, Miami, FL 33155
How Much? Adults $39+ online ($49+ at the door), children 3-10 $29+ online, ($39+ at the door), 2 and under FREE

More info: https://miamiwonderland.com/

Symphony In Lights Holiday Celebration at Gulfstream Park

The entire property will be illuminated with more than 250,000 LED lights, all set to the sounds of holiday favorites from yesterday and today.
A 10-minute light show will begin at the top of every hour from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, Santa and snow show on Saturdays and Christmas Eve from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

"Symphony in Lights" is not only the perfect opportunity to experience some holiday magic, but also to enjoy shopping, dining and boundless entertainment at Gulfstream Park Village's open-air setting.

When? - late November through December 31
Where? Gulfstream Park at 901 S. Federal Hwy, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
How Much? FREE

More info: Symphony in Lights at Gulfstream Park

Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami

It's that magical time of the year as the park transforms into a fabulous array of shimmering trees and dazzling (animal-shaped of course) lights that adorn every corner of this fantastic animal kingdom.

What else? Appearances by Santa and Grinch, animal presentations, arts & crafts and letters to Santa (limited spaces available), hot cocoa and cookies (fee), Snowman's River Boat Rides ($5 per person)

When?: Select nights from late November through December - 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm
Where?: Zoo Miami at 1 Zoo Boulevard, 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177
How Much?: $21.95 per adult and $19.95 per child age 3 - 12 plus tax, Snowman's River Boat Rides $5

More Info and Tickets: Zoo Lights

Magical Snowfall at Dolphin Mall

Miami's winter wonderland, magical flurries and holiday music envelope Dolphin Mall every night during the holiday season!

When? Nightly from late November to early January at 7:00 pm, additional snowfall at 9:00 pm Fridays through Sundays. No blizzard on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.
Where? Ramblas Plaza at Dolphin Mall
How Much? FREE

In addition, while you're at the mall, you can visit Photos with Santa, furry friends welcome on select nights also. Reservations strongly recommended, there are several photo packages available.

More info: www.shopdolphinmall.com

Christmas at the Deeering Estate

Historic Holidays: Caroling Through The Season The Richmond Cottage, the first floor and basement of the Stone House , and outdoor areas of the Estate will come alive with the nostalgic charm of traditional holiday carols.

When? Late November through early January

Where? The Deering Estate at 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33157
How Much? Adults $18, Children (4 - 14) $10

More info: www.deeringestate.org

Winterland at the Farm

With this 60-degree weather, what better way to warm up and get ready into the holiday spirit with family and friends than with some Snow, Holiday Treats, Hot chocolate and much more while you can meet Santa Claus, Nix the Snowman and Sprinkle the Gingerbread Cookie at a beautiful illuminated Forest.

Holiday treats, hay rides, paddleboat rides, Santa, pony rides, and many more activities for kids!

When?: Weekends from late November to early January - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Where?: Pinto Farm at 14890 SW 216 Street, Miami, FL 33170
How Much?: $26.17, children under one free, includes paddle boat rides, tractor rides, pony rides, race track, petting zoo, hay maze, and of course you get to meet Santa.

More info: www.pintofarm.com

Open-Air Holiday Night Market at Dania Pointe

What? Dania Pointe, known for distinctive shopping, quality dining, luxury living, and its flourishing business district, announces a festive holiday season with celebrations, shopping, and live entertainment to get everyone in the joyful spirit. The Lawn at Dania Pointe will become home to inspired Holiday Markets featuring local handmade and artisan gifts. Shop handmade artisan gifts, ornaments, homemade treats, and holiday items under the twinkling lights from local craft makers and artisans curated by @StyleMarket305.

When? Select Fridays in November and December - 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Where? Dania Pointe at 139 S Compass Way, Dania Beach, FL 33004

How Much? FREE

More info: www.daniapointe.com

Ft. Lauderdale Winterfest Boat Parade

The Winterfest Boat Parade has become one of the most awaited events, this year the Ft. Lauderdale shoreline will be coming alive once again. Sailboats, Yachts, Barges, Gondolas, Kayaks... ANYTHING that floats, all decked up with thousands of lights and a merry spirit, traversing the waters of the intracoastal, what could be more fun this holiday season?!

Some fantastic entries and surprises in the past have included a floating bus, the Galleria Mall reindeer barge, a fire truck, Mickey and Minnie... can't wait for this year's parade!

Sailboats, Yachts, Barges, Gondolas, Kayaks... ANYTHING that floats, all decked up with thousands of lights and a merry spirit, traversing the waters of the intracoastal, what could be more fun this holiday season?!

On its 51st year, the Winterfest Boat Parade has become one of the most awaited events, this year the Ft. Lauderdale shoreline will be coming alive once again.

When?: Typically on the second Saturday in December - sails at 6:30 p.m. ends approximately 10:30 p.m.
Where?: Intracoastal Waterway from Ft. Lauderdale to Pompano Beach. Parade starts at the New River where parading boats will be lining up west from Stranahan House to the Performing Arts Center, then move along towards the Intracoastal where they start heading up. Parade ends just south of Atlantic Blvd, at Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach.
How Much?: Free along parade route! See map below.
Where to watch?: Outdoor Parade Viewing Area at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park: adults $30+, children under 10 $25+. There is parking at Las Olas Parking Garage (next to the viewing area) Guests will enjoy a festival atmosphere with live entertainment before and after the Parade. Gates open at 4:00 pm. Parade arrives at the viewing area at approximately 7:00 pm

Great spots to catch the parade is at one of the many bridges over the intracoastal at:

• Las Olas Boulevard
• Sunrise Boulevard
• Oakland Park Boulevard
• Commercial Boulevard

More info: Winterfest Boat Parade

Nights of Lights at Pinecrest Gardens

Pinecrest Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland dotted by thousands of twinkling lights that go up, through and around the whimsical botanical landscape.
Eat yummy treats, pictures with Santa, Story Time nights, face painting, train display, pajama nights, carolers, brewery nights and much more...

When? Fridays thru Sundays from December 6 - 29, 2024 - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Where? Pinecrest Gardens at 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest, Florida 33156
How Much? $18 - $22

More info, tickets and Schedule of Events at the Banyan Bowl: www.pinecrestgardens.org

Garden of Lights at Flamingo Gardens

Thousands of lights and holiday decor fill the Arboretum and Wray Lawn at Flamingo Gardens! Flamingo Gardens' annual holiday event features an after-hours, self-guided walk through the botanical gardens adorned with thousands of lights and decorations. Enjoy visits with Santa and some of his friends along with nightly musical performances. Stop by the Flamingo Pond Snack Bar for holiday treats and beverages available for purchase.

When? Select dates in December, 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, until 11:00 pm Fridays and Saturdays
Where?: Flamingo Gardens at 3750 S. Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330
How Much?: $20 per person, children (3-11) $15, Members $5

More info and tickets: Garden of Lights at Flamingo Gardens

Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights

What? A dazzling series of outdoor live musical performances presented by the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival (MMF) and produced by Artistic Director, Michael Rossi, lights and project mapping displays that celebrate the rich array of international holiday traditions, live appearances by holiday characters and more!
Through the innovative use of projection mapping technology, MMF will transform three iconic Miami Beach venues' building facades into interactive displays with vibrant imagery that is triggered by live music.

When? Two weekends in December

Where? The Betsy Hotel South Beach at 1440 Ocean Drive and adjoining buildings

A special Holiday Extravaganza typically takes place on the first Saturday and combines the Festival of Lights with a fantastic drone show which can be viewed from Lummus Park.

How Much? FREE

More info: Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights

Holiday Drone Show in South Beach

What? A colorful drone show will light up the skies of Ocean Drive on a fantastic spectacle as hundreds of drones take flight over South Beach.
When? Saturday in mid-December
Where?: Lummus Park between 12th and 13th Streets
How Much?: FREE!

More info: Ocean Drive Association FB Page

Snow Fest and Holiday Parade at NMB City Hall

What? A fun evening featuring live music, food, arts & crafts, games, snow mountain, carnival rides and don't miss the special holiday parade from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tree lighting at 5:15pm

When? Saturday in mid-December

Where? North Miami Beach City Hall at 17011 NE 19th Ave. NMB FL 33162

How Much? FREE

More info: City of North Miami Beach FB Page

Winter Wonderland at North Shore Park

What? Tree lighting ceremony, rides, games and entertainment, youth dance performances and visit by special guest.
When? mid-December - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Where?: North Shore Park at 501 72nd Street, Miami
How Much?: Ride wristband $5 for unlimited rides, refreshments for sale

More info: City of Miami Beach FB Page

Meet & Greet with Santa at Sandrells River Theater

Santa is bringing the North Pole to the Sandrell Rivers Theater! Fantasy Theatre Factory invites you to a delightful meet and greet and holiday photo-op with Miami's only black Santa.
You can also enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate with other holiday treats! Santa's Workshop doors are open to all!

When? December, close to Christmas

Where? Sandrell Rivers Theater at 6103 NW 7th Ave. Miami, FL 33127

How Much? FREE ENTRY. Photo: $10, Photo, Cookie & Hot Chocolate and Cookies available for sale

More info and tickets: www.ftfshows.com

A Victorian Christmas at Historic Stranahan House

The holidays are a beautiful and special time at the Historic Stranahan House Museum.

Enjoy costumed docents as they take you back in time to the Victorian era in the beautifully decorated Historic Stranahan House Museum. Learn how many holiday traditions started and how the pioneers celebrated Christmas in the early days of Fort Lauderdale.

When? Select dates in December
Where? Historic Stranahan House Museum at 335 SE 6th Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale
How Much? $30 per person ($25 for members), advance registration required, limited tickets available for each day.
Paid public parking available offsite in the Riverside Hotel Parking Garage or alongside Las Olas Boulevard.

More info and tickets: www.stranahanhouse.org

Santa On The Beach at Ft. Lauderdale Beach

Yes it's Christmas in the sand! Don't miss this year's Santa's traditional candy giveaway along Fort Lauderdale Beach!

With twinkling eyes and smiling faces, Santa and his elves will begin spreading holiday cheer along Fort Lauderdale Beach Park distributing candy canes with glee.

When?: Typically a Tuesday in mid-December - 12:30 pm - Motorcade with Santa begins at noon and expected to arrive at Ft. Lauderdale Beach at 12:30 p.m.
Where?: 1100 Seabreeze Boulevard (Promenade just north of Ft. Lauderdale Beach Park)
Parade Route: The motorcade will begin at the Ft. Lauderdale Police Headquarters and proceed towards the Fort Lauderdale Beach Hub at Las Olas and A1A.
How Much?: FREE!

More Info Here: Santa On The Beach or follow their FB Page.

This Year's Holiday Entertainment Calendar, Concerts and Musicals

Miami City Ballet's The Nutcracker

The holiday tradition you love will become even more magical...

A vibrant and animated winter wonderland comes to life, featuring appearances by The Sugarplum Fairy, toy soldiers, and mischievous mice, all while retaining George Balanchine's iconic choreography and Tchaikovsky's timeless score.

When? Several dates in December

Where? Adrienne Arsht Center and many other venues

How Much? ›› Find The Nutcracker Tickets

An Evening of Holiday Classics: Christmas Candlelight Concerts

What?: Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations. Enjoy some of the most popular Holiday classics under the gentle glow of candlelight... featuring the Nutcracker, a Sinatra Christmas Special, Holiday Jazz, Vivaldi's Four Seasons and many more to choose from
When?: Several Dates
Where?: Many venues throughout Miami
How Much?: $33+

More info: Holiday Candlelight Concerts

Andrea Bocelli Live in Concert

When? Typically in December

Where? TBA

How Much? ›› Find Andrea Bocelli Tickets

Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert

Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert recreates the beauty of Vienna's golden era, led by a witty and charming conductor who is an expert in Viennese music, Salute to Vienna features a European cast of singers, ballroom dancers, and ballet that brings to life the music of Johann Strauss. Backed by the Strauss Symphony, the performance is rich with selections from beloved operettas, elegant dances, lively overtures, and the beautiful Blue Danube Waltz. Celebrate the start of the New Year with Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert!

When? Late December
Where? Adrienne Arsht Center Miami
How Much? ›› Find Salute To Vienna Tickets in Miami

Christmas Services

Christmas Eve Midnight Mass and Christmas Day Services

Bright poinsettias, twinkling lights, wonderful nativity scenes, children caroling and the fragrance of firs and incense filling the church, the Christmas Eve Midnight Mass has been a beautiful tradition for as long as I can remember. All our places of worship and the communities go out of their way to welcome and share in the spirit and purpose of the Christmas celebrations.

Here are some places you can attend Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve in Miami as well as Christmas Day services. All services will be livestreamed.

• Saint Patrick Catholic Church - 3716 Garden Avenue, Miami Beach 33140
  Phone (305) 531-1124
  Christmas Eve Midnight Mass: Multi-Lingual
  Christmas Day:
  English: 8:00 am, 9:30am, 11:00am
  Spanish: 12:30pm, 7:00pm
  More Info

• Church of the Little Flower 2711 Indian Mound Trail, Coral Gables 33134
  Phone (305) 446-9950
  Christmas Eve Cantata: 11:30 pm
  Christmas Eve Midnight Mass: Bi-Lingual
  Christmas Day:
  English: 9:00am, 10:30am, 5:30pm
  Spanish: 12:30pm
  More Info

• Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ 3010 De Soto Blvd. Coral Gables, FL 33134
  Phone (305) 446-9950
  Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ invites everyone to its historic sanctuary, located directly across from the Biltmore Hotel. Christmas Eve brings four engaging services:
  3:00 p.m. German-Language Service
  5:00 p.m. Family Service
  8:00 p.m. Outdoor Candlelight Service
  11:00 p.m. Traditional Candlelight Service
  All Christmas Eve services include an extravagant welcome and Christmas cookies! Every family, friend, neighbor, and traveler are invited to join in the joy of Christmas—and every Sunday service and multitude of other activities—at Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ.
  More Info

This Holiday Season, Give the Gift of Memories!

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dinner in Miami

• Miami Eater: Where to Dine For Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Miami
• MiamiNewTimes: Miami Restaurants Open on Christmas - Where to Make Reservations

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